National Slam the Scam Day is an initiative created in 2020 to raise public awareness to combat Social Security-related scams. Last year, it expanded to include other government imposter scams as reported losses from consumers climbed to more than $446 million in 2021. According to the Federal Trade Commission, reported losses for 2022 are nearly $509 million.  The Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (SSA OIG) partners with other government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector to increase awareness about how to spot government imposter scams and avoid becoming a victim. In a government imposter scam, someone claims to be an SSA, or another government employee, and may ask for personal information, demand payment, or make threats. These scams primarily use the telephone, but scammers may also use email, text messages, social media, or U.S. mail.

Consumer awareness is the most effective method of deterring these crimes, therefore, Slam the Scam Day is held annually as part of the Federal Trade Commission’s National Consumer Protection Week, (NCPW), March 5-11, 2023.  Tips for spotting scams are a critical component because it’s important to keep consumers aware of current trends and past behavior patterns of the scammers.  

Read the complete announcement from SSA OIG at the link below.